The State Medicinal Plant Board organised a Buyer–Seller Meet on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) in the Union Territory of Ladakh on March 7.

The event was held at the conference hall of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa with the objective of providing a common platform for interaction between growers, collectors and potential buyers associated with the medicinal and aromatic plants sector.

Dr. Tashi Thinlas, Director Health Services/AYUSH and Chief Executive Officer of the State Medicinal Plant Board, UT Ladakh, attended the event as the chief guest and welcomed farmers and stakeholders for coming together on a common platform. Officers and representatives from the National AYUSH Mission and the CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Palampur, were also present.

The meet brought together various stakeholders, including farmers, traders, processing units and Amchis, to explore marketing opportunities and strengthen the value chain for medicinal and aromatic plants found in Ladakh. During the interactions, participants discussed the potential of locally available MAPs, quality standards, market demand and strategies to promote sustainable harvesting and cultivation practices in the region.

The initiative marks an important step towards promoting the medicinal plant sector in Ladakh, enhancing livelihood opportunities for local communities and establishing direct market linkages between producers and buyers. More than 30 participants attended the event, which facilitated productive discussions and paved the way for future collaborations and business partnerships.

The State Medicinal Plant Board reiterated its commitment to supporting farmers and stakeholders in developing the medicinal and aromatic plants sector and strengthening market linkages across the Union Territory.

The board also expressed gratitude to the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa for providing the conference hall and supporting the successful organisation of the programme.